I want to talk about something that a lot of us deal with, even me - this weekend as it happened. ​Bloating and digestive issues. You know the feeling, when your belly is just bursting out of your top and you just feel sore and sluggish!
Here's the thing though, a lot of us - including me, know what food will make us bloated, yet we still want to eat it. And honestly? It's OK.
Let me break it down for you.
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Bloating. ​Bloating is when your belly feels full, tight, or puffy, usually because of gas or digestion slowing down. Think of your stomach like a washing machine. Most of the time, it runs smoothly, but if you throw in too many clothes (food), then it doesn't handle this well and it might get jammed or start sloshing around weirdly. Well, that's bloating.
- Common foods that can cause it? Dairy (milk, cheese, ice cream) Beans and lentils Fizzy drinks Greasy or high-fat meals
Why it happens? ​Our bodies are unique. What bothers one person might not affect another at all. Some people don't have enough of certain enzymes to break down foods like dairy. Others might be super sensitive to fibre or gas-producing foods. Sometimes, it's not even about the food. Stress, eating too fast, drinking through straws, or even chewing gum can cause bloating - it's sneaky like that.
Should you always avoid foods that bloat you? ​The honest answer? - Not always. If a food causes pain, cramping, or serious digestive problems every time you eat it, it's worth figuring out what's going on. Maybe you have an intolerance or allergy that needs attention.
But if it just causes you a little bit of bloat and you like the food - that's where the balance comes in.
Let's say you love pizza. It might make you feel bloated, but it's your best friend's birthday and pizza is the main event. In that moment, you might decide: ​I'll deal with the bloat later, let's just enjoy this slice or two.
Final Thoughts ​You're on a journey towards better health - no perfect health. Bloating doesn't mean you're broken, and avoiding it shouldn't mean you miss out on life. Sometimes, the best decision isn't the most "clean" or "healthy" one - it's the one that keeps you connected to joy, fun, and real-life moments. Whether that's a slice of cheesy pizza, a spicy curry, or ice cream on a hot night - if you've made the choice mindfully that's a win!
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